Creative has announced the launch of the Creative XF1, a 2.0 desktop speaker system designed for high-end audio. Rolling out across select markets, the compact speakers pair a clean exterior with a 72W RMS power output, dual Hi-Res Audio certification, and wireless connectivity.

The XF1 features a fully active two-way bookshelf layout using digital signal processing (DSP) control and dedicated bi-amplification for each driver. The internals consist of two 3-inch woofers (26W RMS each) engineered using Finite Element Analysis (FEA), along with a pair of 3/4-inch tweeters (10W RMS each), for a combined system output of 72W RMS. Creative specs the frequency response across a 55-40,000Hz range.

Regarding connectivity, the XF1 is among the first desktop monitor solutions to support Bluetooth 6.0 and LDAC codec (alongside SBC and AAC). Physical connections include a USB-C input supporting up to 24-bit/96kHz digital playback and a 3.5mm analogue line-in. The rear panel also houses a dedicated subwoofer output with automatic mode switching, allowing users to expand into a 2.1 setup. Available in black or white finishes, each set comes with detachable acoustic cork stands that reduce desk vibrations and resonance while angling the drivers toward the listener.

Customisation is handled via the companion Creative Nexus app, which includes a 10-band parametric equaliser and more than 120 specialised EQ presets. The Creative XF1 is scheduled to hit retail starting August 6th, with an MSRP of €159.99.

KitGuru says: Interested in a pair of speakers for your setup? Will you consider the new Creative XF1?

SteelSeries has announced the Arctis Nova Pro Omni, a new wireless headset featuring a multi-source mixing dock, support for the LC3+ codec over Bluetooth, and a refined base station that can mix up to 4 audio sources simultaneously.

The dock included with the Nova Pro Omni features three USB Type-C ports and two 3.5mm jack inputs/outputs, allowing users to blend audio from multiple devices, such as consoles, PCs, and mobile phones. The headset carries dual Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certifications, supporting both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections for compatibility across PC, consoles, VR, and mobile platforms.

Power is managed via a removable battery system, providing what SteelSeries describes as unlimited use through a hot-swappable secondary battery that recharges within the dock. A 15-minute charge provides 4 hours of playback, while a full charge offers 30 hours of battery life on the 2.4GHz connection with ANC disabled.

The headset weighs 339g and utilises 40mm drivers with a frequency response of 10~40000Hz and 38Ω impedance. It features a retractable omnidirectional microphone and memory foam earcups. Integrated controls include a microphone mute switch, a volume/ChatMix dial, Bluetooth multimedia buttons, and a dedicated dial for adjusting dock settings directly from the earcups. The SteelSeries Nova Pro Omni is now available for £349.99/€399.99/$399.99.

KitGuru says: Set between the standard Nova Pro and the flagship Nova Elite, the Nova Pro Omni brings some of the features introduced in the latter to a lower price point.